Pool sales recover modestly while freight costs squeeze margins
Pool Corporation ($POOL) reported third-quarter 2026 sales of approximately $1.5 billion, up 4%, as maintenance demand and building materials improved. Pricing contributed about three percentage points of growth. Net income declined 3% to $123 million, while diluted earnings remained $3.40 per share. Operating income fell 3% to $172.2 million. Gross margin narrowed to 29.0% from 29.6%, reflecting higher inbound freight costs, customer mix and a less favorable comparison with earlier price increa
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